Plans to build 32 homes have stalled – after concerns were raised over the impact it would have on the privacy of neighbours.

Developers had previously won outline planning permission to put up houses and an apartment block on a site off New Road in Madeley.

But members of Newcastle Borough Council’s planning committee have turned down the access, scale and layout proposals of the development.

Councillor Gary White, who represents Madeley and Betley ward, said he was worried about the properties being built on a slope.

The proposed layout for the scheme in Madeley

He also sent a letter to planners raising concerns about the lack of privacy with residents being able to 'look out of their bedroom windows into ground floor windows or solid brick walls'.

Mr White said: “It’s a substantial gradient and at the bottom there’s properties on Woodside being looked down upon.

“They’ve got flats being built at the back of them on a gradient.”

Planners had earmarked the application for approval. A report stated: “The proposed development for 32 dwellings provides an acceptable level of off-street car parking, pedestrian connectivity and relationship with neighbouring properties and following the submission of amended/ additional information the design of the scheme is acceptable.”

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Speaking on behalf of the applicant, who was given outline consent in April, 2015, agent Richard Merrill admitted that the scheme involved 'topographical challenges' but said that the builders will put up a fence.

But councillor Bert Proctor hit out at the proposals and described the placement of a block of six flats as 'ludicrous'.

The proposed land for the development (Image: Google Street View)

He said: “I can’t think of anything more ludicrous then putting this block of flats in that position.

“It is as unbelievable as anything I have seen at a planning meeting.”